Notre Dame de Paris
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Notre Dame de Paris, one of the world's most significant cathedrals, shines again in its full glory after 5 years of intensive restoration. Following the devastating fire on April 15, 2019, the landmark of Paris was meticulously reconstructed to reopen its doors to visitors from around the world. With its impressive towers, ornate rose windows and Gothic architecture, the cathedral not only impresses the faithful, but also architecture and history enthusiasts. The reopening marks a triumphant moment in the history of France and showcases the timeless significance of this iconic structure.
By Jessica Donev
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Île de la Cité and Latin Quarter Guided Tour with Seine River Cruise
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Notre-Dame Island Sainte-Chapelle and Conciergerie Guided Tour
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Paris: Notre Dame Exterior Private Tour
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Notre Dame Cathedral Outside Tour & Sainte-Chapelle Ticket
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If you have special interests, you will definitely find your perfect offer here!Paris: Île de la Cité, Notre Dame, Sainte Chapelle & Cruise
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Paris in a Day with Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame & Cruise
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Notre-Dame & Sainte-Chapelle & Medieval Paris Tour
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Family Treasure Hunt around Notre-Dame Cathedral
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9 tips for visiting the Notre Dame de Paris
Notre Dame | Unsplash: Florian Cordier
1
Visit the towersThe towers offer a breathtaking view of Paris and allow you to see the famous gargoyles up close. However, the climb is steep, so please don't forget good footwear!
Rose window | Unsplash: Ilse Orsel
2
Visit the new treasure chamberThe treasure chamber of Notre-Dame offers fascinating insights into France's religious, cultural, and artistic heritage. It provides a unique chance to admire precious artifacts and to better understand the significant role of Notre-Dame in the history of Paris and the entire nation. You can buy a ticket for the visit on site.
3
Find the masterpiecesUse the interactive map to discover the masterpieces in Notre Dame. The original website has created a map for this purpose, which we highly recommend you to use. Find it here.
4
A window into the pastPay special attention to the magnificent stained glass windows, especially the rose windows. These masterpieces of glass painting have survived the fire and are among the most impressive examples of Gothic art in Europe.
5
Guided tour, audio guide, app or brochure? You have the choice!If you want to learn more about the rich history and the reconstruction of the cathedral, we definitely recommend a guided tour. If you prefer to go alone, download the free app, use an audio guide, or pick up one of the free booklets in the cathedral. These provide interesting insights into the architecture, the religious symbols, and the historical events associated with Notre Dame.
6
EventsEspecially during the first months of opening - starting on December 7 and 8, 2024 until June 8, 2025 (Pentecost) - various events and special masses take place. Take a look at the online calendar of the original website to not miss anything!
7
Organ concertsFind out in advance about planned organ concerts - the acoustics of the cathedral make musical performances an unforgettable experience. For the concerts that take place on Thursdays at 8:30 pm, you need a ticket. Find the schedule and tickets here. On Sundays, the large organ always plays at 4:00 pm.
8
A Place for reflectionIn the rear part of the cathedral, you will find the choir walk with statues of the Apostles and intricately carved reliefs. This area is often somewhat quieter; it provides space for reflection and the conscious experience of the spiritual atmosphere.
9
Visit more highlights of Paris near the cathedralJust a few minutes' walk away is the Sainte-Chapelle, famous for its impressive, colorful stained glass windows. Also explore Île de la Cité, the historic heart of Paris with Place Dauphine, Marché aux Fleurs, a charming flower market, and the Conciergerie, the former prison where Marie Antoinette was imprisoned until her execution.
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Seine Cruise and Notre Dame | Unsplash: Maxime Gilbert
Paris: Île de la Cité Tour, Cruise & Sainte Chapelle Admission
Explore Île de la Cité, the historic heart of Paris, with highlights such as the magnificent Sainte-Chapelle and the Conciergerie. You can enter the reopened Notre-Dame Cathedral and admire its impressive Gothic architecture. The experience culminates in a Seine River cruise with unique views of the Parisian landmarks.
Eiffel Tower | Unsplash: getty images
Paris in one Day: Montmartre, Notre Dame, Louvre, Eiffel Tower
Begin your Paris adventure with a funicular ride to the Basilica Sacré-Cœur and explore the picturesque district Montmartre with its artists' square and charming cafes. After a guided tour of the Louvre Museum and a walk across the Île de la Cité, passing historical landmarks like Notre-Dame and the Conciergerie, the route continues to the Eiffel Tower for unforgettable photo moments. The perfect ending is a romantic boat trip on the Seine, where you can watch Paris aglow with lights.
Family treasure hunt around Notre-Dame Cathedral
Discover the most fascinating monuments in the centre of Paris on a private treasure hunt and enjoy an exciting tour for the whole family. Together with your guide, explore the historic district of Île de la Cité, admire the exterior of Notre-Dame, and visit the sparkling Sainte-Chapelle. Interactive games and activities ensure that children are involved with fun and curiosity.
Private Walk with Guide: Le Quartier Latin - the Latin Quarter
Immerse yourself in the creative and intellectual history of Paris on a private walk through the Latin Quarter. Discover legendary places like the Sorbonne, the Panthéon, and the Shakespeare & Co. bookstore, while listening to stories about famous artists such as Hemingway, Descartes, and Dalí. Be enchanted by hidden corners and famous film locations like those from “Midnight in Paris”.
Reconstruction of Notre Dame | Unsplash: Bryan Garcia
The reconstruction of Notre Dame de Paris
The images went around the world when the famous cathedral caught fire on April 15, 2019. The next day, President Emmanuel Macrón announced the reconstruction within 5 years and wanted to make the cathedral accessible again in time for the Olympic Games. The ambitious promise could not be fully kept, but only had to be pushed back a few months.Notre Dame burning | Flickr: boitchy PDM 1.0
The fire of the cathedral
The fire broke out around 6:50 p.m. and spread rapidly over the wooden roof structure. It brought down the spire and melted the lead roof. The exact cause of the fire has not been clarified to this day. Investigators assume that the fire may have been triggered by a short circuit or a glowing cigarette. However, arson was ruled out. The fire destroyed the entire roof of the cathedral and the historic wooden structures. Thanks to the rapid intervention of 650 firefighters and church staff, some of the most valuable relics and artworks could be saved.
Notre Dame Reconstruction | Unsplash: Michael Tucker
Worldwide reactions and solidarity
The fire made headlines around the world. Within just a few hours, numerous institutions, celebrities, and private individuals began donating millions of euros for the reconstruction. In total, over 340,000 donations were received. Among the largest donors were French corporations and wealthy individuals, who together raised several hundred million euros.
What did not need to be restored
Fortunately, the damages inside the cathedral, including many sculptures, altars, and paintings, were minimal. The great organ also survived the fire but was sent to southern France for restoration and cleaning regardless. The famous, colorful stained glass windows and rose windows from the 13th century survived the fire despite the intense heat and smoke. Many important religious relics, including the Crown of Thorns, a fragment of the Cross of Jesus, and relics of Saint Denis were safely retrieved from the cathedral by firefighters and church staff in time. Although two-thirds of the roof was destroyed, the iconic north and south towers of the cathedral remained stable.
The restoration
The work proved to be extremely complex, as architects and craftsmen had to use traditional building methods and materials to preserve the historic structure. Additionally, the restoration works had to be carried out under high safety measures to stabilize the remaining structure and remove lead residues released during the burning of the old roofing material. Hundreds of old trees from French forests were carpentered in medieval tradition to reconstruct the roof. Experts from around the world were consulted for the elaborate reconstruction. This includes stonemasons from Germany, who are experts in the restoration of Gothic cathedrals and restored windows.
Olympic bell for Notre Dame
At the reopening, the cathedral will have three new bells, including one that was rung by the athletics champions during the Olympic Games in Paris in the summer of 2024 at Stade de France. It bears the inscription 'Paris 2024'. The three new bells replace three previous ones that used to hang near the spire that collapsed in the fire.
Motivations for the reconstruction
Notre Dame is a central symbol of French culture and history. Since the Middle Ages, it has stood in the heart of Paris and is considered a national landmark and significant cultural heritage. The reconstruction was seen by many as a symbolic act to demonstrate France's resilience and to prevent the loss of this important cultural site. Additionally, the cathedral is a place of deep religious significance and a pilgrimage site for Christians worldwide. As one of the world's most visited monuments, Notre Dame attracts millions of visitors annually, bringing revenue and jobs to Paris. The loss of the cathedral would have been a major blow to France's cultural heritage.
Critical voices and counterarguments
The reconstruction cost several hundred million euros, leading to criticism. Some argued that these funds could be better spent on social or environmental projects. Some critics also pointed out that reconstructing with traditional methods was not particularly sustainable and called for a more environmentally friendly process. There were also discussions about whether the cathedral's reconstruction should be in the original style or include modern elements. Many conservationists and citizens, contrary to Macron’s idea of introducing a contemporary architectural touch to the design, demanded that the cathedral be restored to its original state. In this debate among politicians and architects, the Unesco also reminded us that the cathedral is on the list of World Heritage Sites.
Notre Dame de Paris | Unsplash: getty images
A day with Notre Dame - Experience Paris up close
During a visit to Paris, Notre Dame is at the top of the list for me and many other tourists. Continue reading to get inspired for your visit. Get tips all around visiting Notre Dame de Paris.Gargoyle | Unsplash: Pedro Lastra
Morning at Notre Dame
After a French breakfast with milk coffee and croissants, we head to the cathedral Notre Dame. Entrance to the cathedral is free, but we need a ticket for the treasury, which can currently only be purchased on site. When we arrive, the first thing that catches my eye is the imposing façade, which is so much more than just a building. With its gargoyles, looking over Paris like silent guardians, and the towers soaring into the sky, Notre Dame appears as a powerful storyteller. The delicate decorations and the gothic arches give me an idea of how much love and detailed work must have gone into the construction of the cathedral then and now.
Stained glass window | Unsplash: Veit Hammer
A step into another world
Upon entering the cathedral, it feels as though we're diving into another time. The light, filtering through the giant rose windows, bathes the space in a magical play of colors. Anyone who's a fan of color play should definitely visit the Sainte-Chapelle in Paris or Sagrada Familia in Barcelona too! In the middle of the nave, high above us, lies the vault. The walls, the many statues of saints, and the quiet whispering of visitors create an almost tangible, spiritual atmosphere. The famous organ, which has endured so many centuries, amazes me. I imagine how it fills the cathedral with its sounds. Unfortunately, we didn’t manage to get tickets for an organ concert, but I advise you not to miss this event!
View over Paris - climbing the towers
After touring the inside, we dare to climb the towers. Once again, we find many steps to ascend (we have already tackled the Eiffel Tower with 745 steps and the Arc de Triomphe with 284 steps in the last few days). Paris is not only the city of love but also the city of steps, yet each time you are rewarded with a beautiful view! Paris unfolds below me like a postcard. The Seine snakes through the city; the roofs of Paris glitter in the sun. Beside us, a gargoyle stands, patiently watching over the city as though it had lived through every second of the past millennium, and I feel like I'm in a Disney movie.
The Île de la Cité - Paris in its essence
After visiting the cathedral we explore the Île de la Cité, the historical soul of Paris. Near Notre Dame, we discover the Sainte-Chapelle as well, known for its magnificent stained glass windows, which has long since ceased to be an insider tip. The Place Dauphine, a charming square with small cafes and shady trees invites you to linger - the perfect spot to let the atmosphere sink in and to enjoy a little delicacy. Not far away is the Marché aux Fleurs, the oldest flower market in the city, which on this day was bursting with bright colors and wonderful scents.
Notre Dame | Unsplash: Reno Laithienne
The History of Notre Dame - Numbers and Facts
The construction history of the cathedral Notre Dame already started in 1163 and had to be resumed in 2019.Notre Dame | Unsplash: The New York Public Library
The special features of Notre Dame
Construction of the cathedral began in the Romanesque period in 1163 CE; however, as this lasted until 1345, it was completed in the Gothic period. Due to the advancement in technical possibilities during these 200 years, special Gothic stylistic devices could be experimented with and perfected.
The characteristic appearance with the unusually high and large windows was made possible by the external support structure. No other church building of this time was built as tall and narrow.
The characteristic appearance with the unusually high and large windows was made possible by the external support structure. No other church building of this time was built as tall and narrow.
Notre Dame | Unsplash: Emmanuel Acua
The completion in various construction phases
In 1182 CE, the choir was completed in the Romanesque style and consecrated. The crossing, the transept, and a large part of the nave were completed by 1190 AD. The western facade was sealed in 1225 CE, and the nave reached its final form. The crossing tower was erected in 1230 CE, and during this period, the construction of the two towers of the western facade began, which were finally completed in 1250 CE.
From around 1250 CE, the first documented remodelings began, which were inspired by the Gothic style. The Romanesque facades of the transepts were partially demolished and replaced with neo-Gothic elements to create a uniform overall appearance. Also, the buttresses of the choir were transformed from Romanesque to Gothic structures. Extensive modernizations took place inside the cathedral, stretching until 1363, shaping Notre Dame into a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.
From around 1250 CE, the first documented remodelings began, which were inspired by the Gothic style. The Romanesque facades of the transepts were partially demolished and replaced with neo-Gothic elements to create a uniform overall appearance. Also, the buttresses of the choir were transformed from Romanesque to Gothic structures. Extensive modernizations took place inside the cathedral, stretching until 1363, shaping Notre Dame into a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.
From the Enlightenment to Napoléon
During the Enlightenment in 1728 CE, the original design of Notre Dame was radically changed: The colorful stained glass windows were replaced with plain white ones, and the entire interior was painted white, greatly diminishing the charm of the Gothic architecture.
In the turmoil of the French Revolution 1793, the cathedral suffered significant damage. Much of the interior furnishings were destroyed, but unlike many other churches, Notre Dame was preserved. However, it was desecrated and used as a ‘Temple of Reason’, and later even as a wine depot.
It was not until 1802 that the cathedral was consecrated again by Napoléon Bonaparte. Four years later, in 1806, his famous coronation as emperor took place here, immortalized today in a masterpiece by Jacques-Louis David in the Louvre Museum.
In the turmoil of the French Revolution 1793, the cathedral suffered significant damage. Much of the interior furnishings were destroyed, but unlike many other churches, Notre Dame was preserved. However, it was desecrated and used as a ‘Temple of Reason’, and later even as a wine depot.
It was not until 1802 that the cathedral was consecrated again by Napoléon Bonaparte. Four years later, in 1806, his famous coronation as emperor took place here, immortalized today in a masterpiece by Jacques-Louis David in the Louvre Museum.
A turning point in history until today
A turning point for Notre Dame was 1831 CE, when Victor Hugo's novel ‘The Hunchback of Notre-Dame’ was published. The work brought the public's attention back to the impressive architecture; the state of the cathedral came into the spotlight.
The decision to restore the church was made in 1844 CE: The colored windows returned, missing sculptures were replaced, the white paints were removed, and the crossing tower was renewed with lead-lined wood.
In 1905, in the course of the separation of church and state, Notre Dame officially became property of the state by the law separating religion from the state, making France a secular state.
In the 1990s, the west facade was thoroughly cleaned.
In 2019, another extensive restoration began, which, however, ended with the devastating fire and brought new challenges.
The decision to restore the church was made in 1844 CE: The colored windows returned, missing sculptures were replaced, the white paints were removed, and the crossing tower was renewed with lead-lined wood.
In 1905, in the course of the separation of church and state, Notre Dame officially became property of the state by the law separating religion from the state, making France a secular state.
In the 1990s, the west facade was thoroughly cleaned.
In 2019, another extensive restoration began, which, however, ended with the devastating fire and brought new challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any special dress codes for visiting?
Since Notre Dame is an active church, respectful clothing is expected. Visitors should ensure that shoulders and knees are covered. Read more.
When is the best time to visit Notre Dame?
The cathedral is usually less crowded in the mornings and evenings. The early morning offers a peaceful atmosphere, while the evening is especially beautiful when the light falls through the rose windows. Read more.
Are there any guided tours?
Yes, guided tours are offered in several languages, providing deeper insights into the cathedral's history and architecture. Tours will resume from 9 June 2025 and must be registered in advance. Read more.
Can I attend a mass?
Yes, services and masses are held regularly. The current times can be found on the official website. Visitors are welcome to participate in the services. Read more.
Is there an opportunity to buy souvenirs?
There are souvenir shops near the cathedral where visitors can buy keepsakes and religious items. Some of these shops also sell products, the proceeds of which are used to support the restoration and conservation work. Read more.
How long does a typical visit take?
A visit to the cathedral takes about 1-2 hours, with the ascent of the towers and the visit to the treasury taking additional time. Read more.
General information
opening hours
Concerts take place on Thursdays at 8:30 pm - you can find the program and ticket prices here.
Every Sunday at 4:00 pm, the great organ concert takes place.
address
6 Parvis Notre-Dame
Place Jean-Paul II
75004 Paris
website
tickets
how to get there
Written byJessica DonevJessica is the definition of Jack of all trades. When she wants to do something, she just does it. That's why Jessica is an event manager, professional dancer, trainer, content creator, speaker / presenter in training and much more. Having traveled the world a lot, she knows what's important when traveling and shares it with you here on TicketLens.
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